Residents of Cross River State have applauded Governor Bassey Otu’s decisive action in reclaiming government-owned assets from illegal occupants. Acting swiftly on the Governor’s directive, the Department of Asset Management and Recovery, led by Barr. Gilbert Agbor, has intensified efforts to recover encroached public properties. The initiative, aimed at restoring accountability and upholding the integrity of state-owned assets, is already making a significant impact NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
One of the most notable discoveries in the recovery process was at Government College, Ikot Ansa, where it was found that portions of the school’s land had been illegally sold and developed by private individuals.
The school’s principal, Chief Ofem Ubana, revealed that he noticed the encroachment upon assuming office in 2023 and immediately reported the situation to the relevant authorities.
“When I resumed, I observed ongoing construction on land belonging to the school. I had no prior knowledge of how it was acquired. My duty is to oversee the school’s administration, not to engage in land transactions,” he stated.
Investigations revealed that certain individuals within the Ikot Ansa community allegedly facilitated the sale of school property to private buyers, including former high-ranking government officials and their associates.
A resident, Emmanuel Etim, condemned the unlawful transactions and called for swift government intervention.
“It is appalling that people would sell school land for personal gain. Even the principal’s quarters and the corps members’ lodge have been leased out. Such blatant disregard for public property must not be tolerated.”
Another resident expressed appreciation for Governor Otu’s intervention.
“This land belongs to the school and should serve future generations. We are grateful that the Governor has taken action to correct this injustice, and we trust his administration to see it through.”
The Asset Management and Recovery team also visited 12 IBB Road, where government-owned property had allegedly been taken over by private individuals.
At the site, Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, reiterated the government’s resolve to reclaim all unlawfully occupied state assets.
Residents welcomed the move, with Effiom Orok commending the administration’s efforts.
“This is a long-overdue step in the right direction. Government assets must serve the public, not private interests. I encourage the authorities to continue enforcing accountability.”
Governor Otu’s asset recovery initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to protecting public resources and ensuring that government property is used for the benefit of all citizens. By reclaiming encroached assets, the state is sending a strong message that public resources will no longer be mismanaged or exploited for personal gain.
As the Department of Asset Management and Recovery intensifies its operations, Cross Riverians remain optimistic that these efforts will lead to greater accountability and the responsible management of state assets for the collective good.